It's about the third or fourth time in a row I've read 2 Corinthians 12 in the past couple of days. It didn't seem to speak to me. It did amuse me, although it isn't really a laughing matter. Finally, I pinpointed something Paul had to say in verse 14. He started ...
"Here for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be a burden to you..." (2 Corinthians 12:14 ESV).
It's like something we'd say to our children when we've had to repeat ourselves.
Anyway, it struck me as ironic.
Those who were generally more able to give were dragging their feet with it. Paul was giving them quite a reprimand.
Today, we too may be wishing to do some things to serve the Lord but are holding back for whatever reasons, some of which may be unreasonable. They're just excuses that ought to be overcome. Grow up like Paul seems to be saying, be mature especially if we've been Christians for decades. Don't have wimpy excuses when the Lord is nudging us to do something. Let's be the initiative-takers to get on with it.
Serve the Lord with a willing, glad and joyful heart that freely gives even when we need to sacrifice our time and energy along with our money.
"So then as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Galatians 6:10).
Don't make the Lord have to ask you 3, 4, 5, or more times. NOW, is the accepted time.
Lord, open my heart and mind to carry through on my intentions to serve you and/or to be giving as you lay it upon my heart to be doing. I ask in Your precious name, Lord Jesus. Amen.
~ ERC June 2026 ~
Based on 2 Corinthians 12 ESV.
Sing, Be In Time, along with Squirrel.
Photo Credits: Jane Koh.
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